October 2011

happenings

NY Times best selling author JL King to hit the road for Love on a Two-Way Street Tour

October 24, 2011

New York Times best selling author JL King, will appear in Charlotte, NC on October 29th as part of his Love on a Two-Way Street Tour. The famed author and motivational speaker has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey show; and now you can see him live! (Read his moving interview with Oprah Winfrey)

JL King

Author of (9) nine books that range from the nature of human behavior to guides on the affects of health issues on minorities and, sexual orientation and its impact on schools to animal adventures, JL has more than 25 years of experience in writing, publishing, creating and implementing communications strategies for corporations, organizations, aspiring writers and authors. Due to his contributions to the literary world, King has been the keynote speaker and presented awards by approximately 250 education, health and faith based organizations to include: Tuskegee University, Harvard, Howard, Princeton, Alabama A&M, Southern, Florida A&M and Tulane Universities; and, the African American Conference for HIV/AIDS, Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention and National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE). His commitment to multiculturalism and, candid approach to majority issues and minority concerns has made JL one of the most influential Americans.

JL‘s gift of spontaneity allows him to fully involve his readers through relatable characters, familiar situations and unpredictable outcomes.

If your in the Charlotte area this weekend, be sure to stop by…You don’t want to miss this event!

Love on a Two-Way Street Tour
Saturday October 29, 2011
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
@ The Nickel Fireside Lounge
2817 Rozzelles Ferry Rd.
Charlotte, NC 28208

For more information email info@sistersinmotioninc.com

Visit JL King’s website at www.jlking.net

Stay tuned for details on tour dates for the Atlanta area!!!

happenings

135th Street Agency host BBQ kickoff for BET Hip Hop Awards

October 20, 2011

Hip Hop was the “flava” as the music industry descended on the ATL for a star-studded weekend that brought out Atlanta’s Hip Hop ambassadors and celebrity elite to welcome the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards to the city.

Now, anyone who knows me knows that I am a true 80’s aficionado (of sorts). BUT, I actually grew up during the Hip Hop era, so my knowledge of the genre is actually slightly above average. And, even though my kids believe I was born during the Civil War (LOL) I’m still pretty “versed” on the Hip Hop culture. Get it…versed? 😐 (crickets…) Ok, moving on…

Since this was my first ever awards related experience, and one of such magnitude, I was super excited to jump right in! Now, let me tell ya, there were literally 100’s of events around town to usher in the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards. But, with so many events happening all over Atlanta, where does a girl begin? Honestly, I could not decide. Luckily a few fabulous ladies saved me from myself with well timed invites to attend several of the hottest spots that the weekend had to offer.

Fonzworth Bentley, Shante Bacon and Saptosa Foster of 135th Street Agency, and Faune Watkins

First up was the 5th Annual BBQ Kickoff party hosted by NYC-based marketing/PR firm the 135th Street Agency, where over 400 VIP’s packed Piedmont Park’s Magnolia Hall to commence the weekend celebrations. Co-hosted by Fonzworth Bentley and Kelly G (BET’s EVP, Music Programming), the event featured an all-star line-up of celebrity guest, including French Montana, Da Brat, Ray J, DeVyne Stephens, Dondria, Lil Duval, Verse Simmonds, Jovita Moore (WSB TV anchor), Kwanza Hall (Atlanta City Council), Faune Watkins, D.Woods, Shanti Das, Derek J and comedian Shawty.

Yummy Cocktail Cupcakes

Tasty BBQ (courtesy of the Ambiance Network Catering) was on the menu along with delicious treats by Tasty Cakes ATL, and the most decadent cupcakes this side of a shot glass (LOL), Cocktail Cupcakes by the fabulous Brittany Wyatt. It was good to see Brittany again…Now, I know a thing or two about cupcakes, so trust me when I tell you that if you haven’t had a Cocktail Cupcake, you don’t know what you’re missing.

R&B artist Ray J and DeVyne Stephens

So So Def artists Da Brat and Dondria

Hip Hop artist French Montana and DJ Drama

Jovita Moore of WSB TV

Guests mixed and mingled while sipping complimentary Remy V cocktails and FUZE drinks, while featured DJ’s Drama, Trauma and Traci Steele kept the party rockin into the night.

Universal Studio's Tower Heist

Universal Studios were also in the house to promote the up and coming film Tower Heist featuring Ben Stiller and Eddie Murphy.

Nikka Shae posing in the OMG Booth

Dr Miracles provided these fab swag bags

OMG!!! We had a great time capturing candid moments inside the OMG Booth, and Dr. Miracles provided guests with swag bags featuring a few of their upcoming products. FAB!!!

The fabulous MiMi J, and Brittany Wyatt of Cocktail Cupcakes

Tami Reed with Talking with Tami, Saptosa Foster and Shante Bacon with 135th Street Agency PR

Tami Reed of Talking with Tami, Saptosa Foster and Shante Bacon with 135th Street Agency PR

MiMi J (aka Joan of Appliqué 😀 ) was also in attendance and looking haute as usual!!! So was the fabulous Tami Reed of Talking with Tami who hosted the Bloggers Circle.

Thanks Tami for the invite!!! We had such a great time blowing up Twitter @ #BETHHA all night!!! LOL

Also, thanks to Saptosa Foster of 135th Street Agency for hosting such a fabulous event!

All the fab bloggers at the Bloggers Circle hosted by Tami Reed of Talking with Tami

So, by the end of the night, after all that mixing and mingling with all those Hip Hop celebs, I had amassed a pretty extensive vocabulary of Hip Hop terminology that I was eager to put to the test at the next event. And, I figured that every time I used a Hip Hop related term during any of the weekend celebrations, that a rapper would get his bling. (a lil It’s a Wonderful Life…but with a “Twist-a”… Ok. I’m done) 😛

Next up…the BET Art of Gifting! Let’s go!!!

**Photos courtesy of 135th Street Agency

etc, etc

Former “Doublemint Twin” turned Interior Designer opens design showroom in Atlanta

October 17, 2011

For nearly two decades, California-based Maudlin, situated on the design savvy stretch of Girard Avenue in La Jolla and founded by one of the original “Doublemint Twins”, Jennifer Van Galder, has been providing the highest quality in interiors to residents. Included are A-list designers, professional NBA sports moguls, Hollywood celebrities, and heads of Fortune 500 companies. All have sought out Van Galder for her timeless vintage inspired designs and down to earth services. Now she and business partner,William Rose of Artifactual have opened Maudlin et al in Atlanta’s West Midtown Design District on DeFoors Avenue. Located near DeFoor Center with plenty of parking, Maudlin et al offers creative design options for interior designers and lovers of home decor. The grand opening, which will include special give aways, discounts, wine and light bites is scheduled for Thursday October 27, 2011. Open house for the public will be held 1pm-5pm and a media reception from 7pm-9pm.

Van Galder shares, “Maudlin La Jolla has long been known for custom upholstered, and slip-covered furniture, drapery and bedding. Our fabric selection is extensive. We excel in custom lighting. After years of buying antiques and unique pieces from William Rose in Atlanta, we finally made our working together official by opening Maudlin et al to signify the breezy style of the West merged with the traditional style of the East.” Artifactual specializes in industrial furniture, old world iron, architectural salvage, soft goods and more and has been serving the Atlanta and surrounding areas for nearly a decade, Van Galder continues, “Artifactual has offered an unbelievable source for our designers and other store owners throughout the country and I am thrilled to open the second location of Maudlin, Maudlin et al. We are excited about the endless possibilities of this partnership.”

William “Bryan” Rose began his early career in the home building industry and soon realized he had agift, that of perfect proportion and an eye for melding old with new and Artifactual was born. Rose said in a recent interview when asked about the number one influencing factor in his success, “Spending several summers in Santa Fe looking at size, color, and texture, old partnered with new, I knew it could work across the spectrum of great decorating, was fresh and something not offered in the South, where I was born.Today’s young progressives in the Atlanta area are discriminating in taste and are enveloping the marriage of old and new with futuristic. Maudlin et al, understands that and looks forward to helping interior designers and home décor lovers to stylize and incorporate their ideas.” As a former fine home builder, William “Bryan” Rose has even built custom furniture utilizing antique components for his clients.

Van Galder and Rose travel the world collecting just the right pieces for signature looks for fine living. Both are busy with interview requests for design inspired publications, due in large part to the recent partnership to furnish restauraunt food chain,Urban Plates in San Diego.

To attend the private media reception or sign-up to receive details and/or information about the open house, please RSVP to the T.MORRISON AGENCY at publicity[at]tmorrisonpr[dot]com.

All media inquiries and requests for interviews should be directed to our press contact.

To learn more about Maudlin La Jolla and Maudlin et al, please visit their website or keep up-to-date by checking out their blog.

happenings

Qream de la Crème..Ooh la la!!!

October 16, 2011

Imagine a beverage conceived of elegance and sophistication, with flavors that exude sexiness and scream of regalia.

The menu for the eve was Qream!

What am I referring to you might ask?
Well, the secret is in the Qream!

With the most exquisite and distinctive crème liqueur to ever grace your pallet, Qream is designed for the contemporary Diva who desires a drink that is majestic in stature, unapologetic in taste, yet still embellishes femininity. Simply put, Qream is a drink that’s truly fit for a Queen.

So it was only fitting that Qream launch their crème liqueur at the palatial “Pink Palace” mansion for an event that brought out some of Atlanta’s social and entertainment elite to celebrate in an evening unlike any other.

The Pink Palace in Buckhead

Nestled in the heart of Buckhead on manicured landscaping, the mansions name is derived from its origin of having a pink colored facade. And although its exterior is no longer pink in color, there were haute pink spotlights throughout that beautifully illuminated the facade, giving this Italian Baroque-style home a fabulously glowing ambiance.

The Fabulous Monica Diggs with Qream rep

I originally tasted Qream at the Polished & Primped Nail Bar and Boutique Grand Opening celebration a few weeks prior. The event was hosted by the fabulous Monica Diggs with Qream who invited me to the Qream launch party at the Pink Palace. You can read all about it here. From the moment I tasted this fabulous drink I immediately fell in love with Qream.

Pharrell Williams with his super chic creation Qream

Created by Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter, and super producer – Pharrell Williams, Qream has a very silky and distinct taste that comes in two fabulous flavors, Strawberry Qream and Peach Qream.

**Video courtesy of 3 Little Digs

The strawberry flavor is rosy pink, opalescent in appearance and tempts the taste buds with a lightly decadent mélange of sweet berries. The aroma opens up like melted strawberry ice cream on a hot summer day. The initial taste is of ripe, sweet strawberry and fresh cream, followed by light tropical notes, a silky texture and a touch of warmth from the premium vodka, resulting in a clean full bodied finish, with a whisper of vanilla.

The peach flavor is frosty soft in appearance and tempts the taste buds with a lightly decadent burst of fresh ripe peaches. The bouquet is fruit forward with subtle vanilla-cream notes and luscious fruit. The initial taste is delicately creamy, with peachy sweet top-notes balanced by exotic tropical fruit nectar, a silky cream texture and the brightness of premium vodka spirit, resulting in a clean, sublimely juicy cream finish.

With it’s chic and curvy silhouetted bottle embellished with crowns and fleur de lis, Qream embodies a regal feel with a sexy edge. I’m sure the bottles’ design lends to the brands concept of making a drink that appeals to women’s psyche. Coupled with lush fruity flavors, Qream fulfills its mission of creating a drink that celebrates women and encourages them to “live deliciously”!

Lookin haute!!! Kandi Burruss of TAGS Boutique and RHWOA

Nikka Shae and music industry mogul Jermaine Dupri

Hairstylist Derek J of The J Spot Salon

Music exec Shanti Das and the fab Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas

So, upon entering the Pink Palace, guests were greeted with a glass of Qream (thank you very much). And, as I meandered through this b-u-t-ful mansion (LOL) I saw many familiar faces from past events, as well as some of Atlanta’s most notable celebs and social elite such as music industry mogul Jermaine Dupri of Global 14, Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas of TLC, Kandi Burruss of TAGS Boutique and Real Housewives of Atlanta, fashion designer Mychael Knight of Project Runway season 3, celebrity hairstylist Derek J, and songwriter/producer Bryan-Michael Cox. Other celebs spotted were record execs Shanti Das and DeVyne Stephens, DJ Drama, and former Atlanta Falcons players Jamal Anderson and Bob Whitfield.

Delish Qream inspired desserts

The event featured lite bites, Qream inspired drinks, decadent pastries, and deserts that were infused with Qream liqueur. All were simply delicious!!!

Guests mix and mingle poolside at the Pink Palace

DJ Traci Steele kept the party jumpin “poolside” as guests converged outdoors to mix and mingle while sipping Qream inspired drinks by the pool.

The fabulous Rosalynn Wilson Founder and CEO of Chic Boutique Tour with Lentheus Chaney of Urban Lux Magazine

Fashion editor McKenzie Harris of Rolling Out Magazine

It’s no surprise that Qream evokes a trendsetting quality considering its creator, Pharrell Williams, is an innovator in music, having crossed all genres in the industry by working with music heavyweights like Beyoncé, Madonna, Justin Timberlake, and Britney Spears, as well as hip-hop royalty like Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, Kanye West, and a host of others.

Nikka Shae with Qream creator Pharrell Williams

Well, Mr. Williams, I’m sold!
Qream is the Crème de la Crème of crème liqueurs (try saying that fast)! 😀

So, whether you’re a Diva about her business, a Fashionista on the go, or even the Queen of the city, Qream is the perfect way to “crown” a long and exhausting day of ruling the world!

happenings

Jersey Girls Sports teaches women how to score big!!!

October 11, 2011

It’s no secret that my knowledge of sports is a bit lacking. In fact, if I were to ever be presented with a chance at fortune if I could answer just one sports related question; my employer would likely see me at my desk the following day. So, any knowledge on the subject would be like finding the consummate “Golden Ticket” and being rewarded with the once in a lifetime opportunity at touring Willy Wonka’s psychedelic wonderland of goodies. Ok, that may be a bit extreme in contrast, but you get my point (I hope). 😀

The fabulous Tamika Morrison of T.Morrison Agency coordinated the event

So, when the always fabulous, Tamika Morrison of T.Morrison Agency, invited me to a sports related soiree for women, I thought, well; this is my last chance at getting that Everlasting Gobstopper that’s been eluding me for so long. 😛

TWO-MINUTE WARNING: The following will contain an abnormal amount of football related lingo that may get me a penalty flag by the football elite. You’ve been duly warned…

Brandi Harvey, Angela Davis, Marcelle English and Karli Harvey

Jersey Girls Sports “kicked off” the event, which is a sports classroom for women (like me), who want to enhance their understanding of sports and how to incorporate sports into their lifestyle. The event, dubbed 1st & Flirty, was all about the ladies (sorry fellas), and featured Harvey twins, Brandi and Karli of Young, Fit & Fly who co-hosted the festivities. Set at the Hudson Grille in Midtown, guests enjoyed gameday appropriate food such as BBQ wings, nachos, dip, burgers, and veggie and fruit trays, as we watched the Atlanta Falcons go head-to-head with the Philadelphia Eagles in an exciting matchup that saw Michael Vick return to ATL to face his former team. And, since this was a ladies exclusive event, there were fabulous swag bags featuring the latest issue of Kraze Magazine at the “ready”, and we were all “set” for a great evening of fun; and, no one would have to “hike” back home empty handed since there were plenty of freebies and giveaways. (I warned ya!) 😀

One lucky lady won a pair of Falcons tickets!!! Now how’s that for a giveaway!

Now, according to Jersey Girls Sports’ co-founders, Angela Davis and Marcelle English, the Jersey Girls concept was conceived out of their love for sports. Jersey Girl Sports is a lifestyle brand for female sports fans, and they have created an experience where a woman can find her place and add value within her favorite sport which includes everything from understanding the game to what women wear to a game, by presenting a platform where women can get sports…on their terms. Go girls!!!

Ladies brush up on their football knowledge while enjoying the event

Both Angela and Marcelle gave us ladies the 101 on football, as well they shared examples of how football can relate to relationships and everyday situations. After listening to these fab ladies, I actually understood the game of football much more than I had before, and I couldn’t wait to get home and share my new-found knowledge with my hubby; who by his OWN account is the self proclaimed “Gridiron Guru” because of his extensive knowledge on all things football. I’ll get back to that a bit later…

The fabulous Harvey Twins discussed how women can be chic and fly at any sporting event

Brandi and Karli Harvey, owners of Young, Fit & Fly, discussed how we can get chic team gear at affordable prices. They talked about how we can incorporate fashion into sports (which I thought was a brilliant idea), as well as why you do not need to wear a jersey and jeans to support your favorite team. And, they showed us how they turned their team sweatshirts into fabulous fashion one-offs, pairing them with leggings and tights, and completing the look with cute accessories and thigh high boots. Touchdown!!! Rockin a haute look like that will definitely get a “score” (and a two-point conversion)! 😉

Dr. Tartt giving the ladies tips on finding their "Star Quarterback"

Although it was an all girls exclusive event, the ladies were given a males perspective by Clinical Psychologist and Relationship Expert, Dr. Alduan Tartt. Dr. Tartt dropped in to “coach” the ladies about relationships and marriage, how to find our “Quarterback” in a mate, as well as providing pointers on attracting the opposite sex. Dr. Tartt also spoke about his book; The Ring Formula, which offers insight on what men look for in a potential wife. Hmmm…Sound advice to get the single ladies off the “sideline”, and into the “game”. 😀

I had a wonderful time networking with all the fab ladies while learning all about the game of football, and how to glam-up my wardrobe in support of my fav sports team. Thanks to the divas at Jersey Girls Sports, Dr. Alduan Tartt, and the fab ladies of Young, Fit & Fly, we all left with priceless nuggets of wisdom on how to make sports a more enjoyable (and fabulous) experience. Now, it was time for me to “tackle” my newly acquired knowledge of football by putting these gems to the test on my hubby, the “Gridiron Guru”.

Oh Honey!!! Can you come here for a sec? I wanna show you how I run my Wildcat Offense! 😉

happenings

Polished & Primped celebrates their Grand Opening

October 8, 2011

Let’s face it…being a Diva about town is certainly not for the faint of heart. One day you’re here, the next day you’re there…I never knew that jetsetting and moonlighting would require so much energy. And, although I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything, it’s definitely deserving of a getaway from time to time. Well; I could be easily tempted by a pair of these “faubolous” Giuseppe Zanotti’s and an offer to be a guest judge on Cupcake Wars. I’m just sayin… 😀

[Insert visual of me, in dramatic fashion (of course), fainting onto a comfy sofa, exhausted from a long day of fabulousness and glamerocity (no need for spell check).]

As you can imagine, I’m overdue for a day of relaxation, rejuvenation, and pampering; and I’m not referring to some Calgon quick fix either. THIS, my friends, is gonna require a bit of professional assistance. So, in my mission to experience all that’s fab in Atlanta, sometimes I look forward to just taking time away from the hustle and bustle to reflect, relax, and release…. Annnnd…exhale! Woosah!!!

Polished & Primped offers a unique assortment of fab one of a kind pieces

Let’s rewind things for a moment to several weeks ago when I attended the Chic Boutique Tour. You remember the Tour right? A caravan of divas on a “shopping expo-dition” whilst (I always wanted to use that word) discovering some of Atlanta’s most fabulous boutiques. At stop #4 of the tour we embarked on an ultra-chic and uber-swanky “gem” called the Polished & Primped Nail Bar and Boutique. I was so amazed at how lavish the place was! The ambiance was so romantic and tranquil…a quintessential “girls paradise”. Upon entering this “Divas Dreamland”, I immediately felt like a Hollywood starlet at some exclusive shop on The Drive…Darling! Pampering AND shopping…what a great idea! Say you’ve just purchased a fabulous outfit; why not compliment your new ensemble with a fresh coat of candy nail paint from their conveniently located nail bar? This glamorously chic concept is long overdue, and their use of elegant décor and accents pieces sets the mood for a shopping experience like no other. I love, love, love the haute pink, button tufted counter! From the moment you enter, it immediately catches your eye, and draws you in for a closer look!

Polished & Primped has three uniquely distinct areas that all cater to any womens needs.

Relaxing Pedi Lounge

A Polished Pedicure Lounge where weary patrons can relax their feet in rose petals while enjoying a foot massage fit for royalty.

A Primped Fashion Lounge featuring the hautest brands alongside one of a kind pieces, and fab accessories to complete the look.

A Polished Manicure Lounge complete with OPI nail lacquer in a wide variety of deliciously fab colors that had me reminiscing back to my many visits to the Brachs candy display at the mall. 😛

So, while in the midst of my childlike wonderment at this fabulous new find, I met one of the boutiques’ owners, Dawn Riel, who invited me to attend their Official Grand Opening which would take place the following month. Leading up to the BIG day, I felt like kid on Christmas Eve as I envisioned myself unwrapping my new toy and playing with it for hours on end. 😀

So, fast forward to the present (pun intended) and the BIG day was finally here! (Que uncontrollable glee and patter clapping) 😀

Qream has a very silky and sophisticated taste

Qream simply exudes sexy. Ooh la la!!!

Upon entering this fab boutique, I was greeted by the “Qream Girls” who were serving THE most delicious crème liqueur I have ever tasted. O-M-G!!! Aptly named Qream (with a Q), this sexy new liqueur will have your taste buds feeling like they’re on a secret rendezvous with pure bliss! Ooh la la!!! Created by Super Producer – Pharrell Williams, Qream has a very silky and sophisticated taste and comes in two fabulous flavours, Strawberry Qream and Peach Qream. Let me tell you; even the bottle screams sexy! Bravo Qream!!!

Monica Diggs with the lovely Qream Girls

Qream provided the OMG factor with their lush Strawberry and Peach liqueurs

I had the pleasure of meeting Monica Diggs with Qream, who invited me to their upcoming launch party at the Pink Palace.

Looks like I’ll be celebrating Christmas a bit early….again! 😀

Polished & Primped owners Dawn Reil, Selam Welde, and Kim Wilkins

After distinguishing the fire caused by the excessive swiping of my credit card, 😀 I had a chance to meet the other two owners of Polished & Primped; Kim Wilkins (Dawn Reil’s sister) and Selam Welde who also manages the chic Polished Beauty Lounge in the Vinings.This trio of fab ladies have created a posh atmosphere that exudes sensuality and chic. Their eclectic assortment of pieces ranges from haute party dresses and detailed shirts to sexy lingerie, and statement jewels and accessories that you won’t find anywhere else. Their collection of eclectic styles, unique one of a kind accessories, coupled with a pampering station makes Polished & Primped a gem amongst jewels.

NBA Legend Dominique Wilkins with girlfriend

Showing off my OPI candy nails at the pampering station

During the event, I also met Atlanta Hawks Legend, Dominique (Nique’) Wilkins and his brother, New York Knicks Great Gerald Wilkins, who just so happens to be the husband of shop co-owner Kim Wilkins. The festivities featured fabulous fashion freebies (try saying that fast :-D), swag bags, lite hors d’oeuvres by Shout, and complimentary mini manicures of which I could not help but indulge. 😀 DJ Teknology kept the guests rockin to the 80’s hits…Those songs brought back so many memories! 😀 And, with a portion of the proceeds from the event benefiting the American Diabetes Association, it was time to shop, shop, shop!!!

The fabulous Rosalynn Wilson of Chic Boutique Tour with party guest

The fabulous Rosalynn Wilson, Founder and CEO of Chic Boutique Tour, was also in attendance to celebrate the Ouverture d’ Grande’. The Chic Boutique Tour is by far the most fab event of its kind, and I can’t wait until the next tour on November 12th!!!

Well, it looks like Polished & Primped created the perfect atmosphere to relax and unwind, and shop…of course!

Wow! Who’d have thought that you could be Styled & Spoiled, Clothed & Catered To, or (my fav) Pizzazz’d & Pampered all at the same place?

Well, I’m off to enjoy my new present. Merry Christmas to all, and to all…well, you know the rest. 😀

NY Times best selling author JL King to hit the road for Love on a Two-Way Street Tour

135th Street Agency host BBQ kickoff for BET Hip Hop Awards

Former “Doublemint Twin” turned Interior Designer opens design showroom in Atlanta

Qream de la Crème..Ooh la la!!!

Jersey Girls Sports teaches women how to score big!!!

Polished & Primped celebrates their Grand Opening

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